Trans Fats are created when oils are hydrogenated to make margarine and shortenings so that they are easier to handle and more shelf stable. They may be present in baked goods and fried foods where these hydrogenated fats are used. Check the Nutrition Facts label on the package, and avoid them as much as possible.

According the American Heart Association, “Knowing which fats raise LDL cholesterol and which ones don’t is the first step in lowering your risk of heart disease. In addition to the LDL produced naturally by your body, saturated fat, trans-fatty acids, and dietary cholesterol can also raise blood cholesterol.” So plan for more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and reduce your family’s intake of those saturated fat, trans-fat, and cholesterol bearing foods. There are numerous Low Fat and Low Cholesterol recipes made with California Raisins, and you can grind them to make a paste and substitute that for part of the fats called for in many recipes. Check out these possibilities at LoveYourRaisins.com:

Get Your Bake On!

November 17 is Homemade Bread Day. There’s not much that is better than the smell of freshly baked bread when you open the door after a long day at work or school. So have some ready when your kids come home from school and enjoy it with them while they share their days at school.

Let’s Give Thanks

Thanksgiving is remembering our blessings and sharing them with family and friends while enjoying all that abundance of food that makes this day so special. To make preparation for Thanksgiving dinner easier, take a spin off the traditional roasted whole turkey, with Breast of Turkey Stuffed with Chestnuts, Pistachios, and California Raisins. If you must, a whole turkey, goose or duck is something special when filled with Golden State Stuffing with its California Raisins and apples, too.

These are just a few of the great ideas and recipes to be found at LoveYourRaisins.com. Whether its home for the holidays or over the river and through the woods to grandma’s house, California Raisins can add to the fun and enjoyment. From Cookies to Breads to Party Foods to that all-important Thanksgiving Meal, they are the Wise Choice for better eating, every time!